African Giants Ready for Battle at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup

Author: xxxxxxxx

While South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns proudly represent sub-Saharan Africa, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States also features three powerful North African clubs: Al Ahly SC (Egypt), Espérance Sportive de Tunis (Tunisia) and Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco).

These clubs carry decades of continental success and passionate fanbases but face challenging group stage draws. Here’s an overview of each club’s profile, group opponents and prospects for Africa’s hopes on the global stage.

Al Ahly SC (Egypt)
Country: Egypt
Manager: José Riveiro
CAF Champions League Titles: 12
Group: Group A – Al Ahly, Inter Miami, Palmeiras, FC Porto

Al Ahly, Africa’s most decorated club and a 12-time CAF Champions League winner, enter the tournament under new management. José Riveiro, who previously coached Orlando Pirates in South Africa, replaced Marcel Koller ahead of this campaign.

Their opening match pits them against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami — a highly anticipated showdown and a major global spotlight on the African giants. The group also includes Palmeiras, South American champions and perennial Copa Libertadores contenders, plus FC Porto, a strong Portuguese side with consistent UEFA Champions League presence.

Espérance Sportive de Tunis (Tunisia)
Country: Tunisia
Manager: Maher Kanzari
CAF Champions League Titles: 4
Group: Group D – Espérance, Flamengo, Los Angeles FC, Chelsea

Espérance, known for their tactical discipline and hard-working ethos, are led by Maher Kanzari, a respected Tunisian coach. While they may not boast household-name stars, their cohesive team structure has delivered multiple continental titles.

Their Group D opponents present a formidable gauntlet: Chelsea, one of Europe’s top clubs despite recent inconsistencies; Flamengo, Brazilian giants with extensive Club World Cup experience; and LAFC, MLS champions known for their pace and intensity.

Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco)
Country: Morocco
Manager: Mohammed Amine Benhachem
CAF Champions League Titles: 3
Group: Group G – Wydad, Manchester City, Al Ain, Juventus

Wydad face the tournament’s toughest group after appointing Mohammed Amine Benhachem to replace Rulani Mokwena. Their opponents include Manchester City; Juventus, the historically dominant Italian giants undergoing a revival; and Al Ain from the UAE.

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